Friday, May 23, 2008

June Activities At Red Rock State Park

The Red Rock State Park is offering a variety of environmental programs including moonlight & sunset hikes in June.

On Sunday, June 1st, at 2 pm in the park theatre, Richard & Sherry Mangum will present "Route 66 Across Arizona." Route 66 is an important part of the heritage of the nation & of Arizona. In the words of the song, "Route 66," "Get Your Kicks on Route 66: It winds from Chicago to L.A. More than 2,000 miles all the way..." This presentation takes the viewer on a nostalgic trip through Arizona by examining the history of "The Mother Road" & discussing the profound impact Route 66 has had on the nation & Arizona. This program is presented by the Arizona Humanities Council & the Benefactors of Red Rock State Park. Reservations are recommended as seating is limited. For reservations, please call (928) 282-6907.

The Moonlight Hike continues on Tuesday, June 17th. An unforgettable experience, the hike includes a naturalist-led interpretive presentation along the park's beautiful trails. Enjoy the sunset & moonrise from an overlook & return by the light of the moon. The hike leaves promptly from the Visitor Center at 7 pm. No late arrivals may join after the hike commences. Wear appropriate hiking shoes (no sandals) & bring water, a flashlight & insect spray.

Every Monday, Wednesday, & Friday in June, join a volunteer for a Sunset Hike. The hike begins from the Visitor Center at 6 pm.

Every Wednesday & Saturday at 7 am visitors will find bird enthusiasts joining a naturalist for a "Guided Bird Walk." Beginners as well as advanced birders are welcome. Rangers recommend visitors bring their own binoculars. A limited number are available for loan from the park.

Daily at 10 am, visitors can join a naturalist on a guided nature walk that lasts 1 to 2 hours & will introduce them to the riparian ecosystem of Oak Creek & other aspects of the park. Plants, wildlife, geology, history & archaeology are some of the subjects that may be discussed.

Daily at 2 pm (with the exception of June 1st), the park hosts a ranger-or naturalist-led activity of approx. 45-minutes. Programs may include a nature-hike, a special presentation or an educational/nature video. This program may be an indoor or outdoor activity.

For more information call (928) 282-6907. Red Rock State Park is located on the Lower Red Rock Loop Road off Hwy 89A, southwest of Sedona. Park hours are 8 am to 7 pm. Visitor Center hours are 9 am to 6 pm.

The park entrance fee is $6 per vehicle for up to 4 adults, each additional adult is charged $2 each. (There is no charge for children). A $2 per person entrance fee applies to pedestrians, equestrians & bicyclists. Arizona State Parks Annual Pass is available for $50 (some restrictions apply) & Premium Annual Pass is sold for $125.

The unique land-based ecosystem, closely associated with Oak Creek, provides the setting & the opportunity for Red Rock State Park to offer a center for environmental education. With its diverse riparian habitat for plants & wildlife, Red Rock State Park offers special hikes & programs as a regular part of the park's environmental program.